South Carolina Dog Bite Lawyer
Dogs are woven into the fabric of the American lifestyle, and they are a favorite pet in South Carolina households. Though most canines live up to their reputation as our best furry friends, data from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) indicates that some can be dangerous. More than 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs every year in the US, and up to 800,000 will seek medical attention for their injuries. Sadly, children are more likely to be victims and usually suffer more severe injuries as compared to adults.
It is true that they are animals, but most dog bites are preventable through the exercise of reasonable care by owners. As a result, you may be able to seek monetary damages for the losses you suffer as a result of your injuries. Our team at the Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm is knowledgeable about the laws that apply to these cases, so please contact our Charleston office to schedule a no-cost consultation. A South Carolina dog bite lawyer can explain how we help victims, but some background information may be useful.
Liability in South Carolina Dog Bite Claims
There are multiple theories of liability that victims can be used as a basis for pursuing a dog bite case, starting with a statute enacted by the state legislature. The law provides strict liability for dog bite claims, which means you do not have to prove that the owner or person keeping the animal was negligent.
In addition, there may be other theories of liability that apply to a dog bite claim. Depending on the specifics of your case, our South Carolina dog bite attorneys will pursue legal action based upon:
- Common law scienter, which refers to the “one bite” rule where an owner is liable because the dog had previously attacked;
- Negligence, where the owner failed to use reasonable care in keeping the dog; and
- Negligence per se, in which the specific form of negligence is a violation of regulations regarding dogs. Leash and fence laws are examples.
Pursuing Those Responsible for Dog Bite Injuries
In many cases involving dog bites, your first step in the legal process will be filing a claim under the dog’s owner’s home insurance policy. Some cases will settle out of court, but you could encounter challenges in the claims process. The insurer might deny your claim by alleging that you provoked the dog, or your injuries were not severe. If the insurance company refuses to settle for a fair amount, you will need to go to court.
The Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm will carry out all essential legal tasks, including:
- Investigating and gathering evidence;
- Filing documentation with an insurer;
- Negotiating settlement with the insurance company; and
- Preparing documents to initiate litigation in court.
Speak to Our South Carolina Dog Bite Lawyer
For more information on your rights and remedies, please contact the Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm by calling 843-310-5555 or checking us out online. You can set up a free case evaluation with an experienced attorney who can advise you on the next steps.
